Allianz Life Launches New Variable Annuity Riders

MINNEAPOLIS--(Business Wire)--
On the heels of last week`s announcement of strong earnings and reaffirmed
ratings, Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz Life) today
introduced new living benefit riders that were pulled from its top-selling
variable annuity on March 31st. The company discussed these products and other
bold moves it is taking to ensure success in the difficult economy.

"We are fortunate to have the backing of a strong, diversified parent company, a
disciplined business approach, and exceptional talent to navigate through
economic ups and downs," said President and CEO Gary C. Bhojwani. "For all
companies in our industry, the crisis has reinforced the importance of closely
reviewing and heeding risk management models, even when it seems unpopular."

As far as the impact on consumers, Bhojwani explained that: "Today`s investor
faces the reality of a `new normal` in retirement. The dramatic loss in personal
retirement savings has affected most Americans` sense of security."

According to Hewitt Associates, the average 401k lost nearly 30% in 2008. In
addition, the U.S. Census Bureau shows that the population is both aging and
living longer. This shift in demographics is resulting in a greater need for
products with guarantees and lifetime income.

"It is a near-certain probability that the financial-based global economy of the
past half-century will not return," said economic guru and head of Allianz Life
sister company, PIMCO Managing Director William H. Gross.

"Saving for the future has taken on increased importance," said Robert
DeChellis, senior vice president of distribution for Allianz Life. "Our products
provide both choice and flexibility to help consumers choose the best way to
comfortably accumulate retirement assets and create income to maintain their
current lifestyle."

A deferred variable annuity, Allianz VisionTM and its optional riders* provide
retirement income guaranteed for life while offering the potential to increase
income in varying market conditions through annual payment increases, a unique
feature only offered by Allianz Life. Available through many Broker/Dealers, the
new optional riders for Allianz Vision are available at an additional cost and
already approved for sale in 39 states:

Income Protector is a rider witha lifetime income benefit to help consumers
build a protected source of income with a guaranteed growth rate and an
attractive annual anniversary payment increases based on positive contract value
performance.

Investment Protector is a rider with an accumulation benefit that protects
assets and locks in 95% annual gains, and incorporates a life-cycle investment
strategy.

Other Bold Moves

Other Allianz Life initiatives have included applying Market-Consistent Embedded
Value (MCEV) for risk modeling, and expanding its industry-leading suitability
program to all 50 states.

Allianz Life uses multiple risk measurement tools to manage its business,
including MCEV, a model commonly used in Europe that is now making its way to
the United States. MCEV is an analysis of profit and risk, identifying all
investment risks embedded in insurance products. This model is known for its
conservative bent relative to approaches typically used in the U.S., which is
proving valuable during these volatile times.

In addition, Allianz Life has taken active steps to raise the bar for corporate
responsibility and consumer protection by launching a series of nationally
uniform standards for the selling and servicing of its fixed annuities and fixed
index annuities (FIAs). These standards have been recognized by regulators and
industry associations as best practices and exceed most state regulatory
requirements. The company has also significantly invested in product and
financial training programs for the "new normal."

*The Vision Variable Annuity annual mortality and expense risk charge rage from
1.40% to 1.75% depending on the contact selected. The optional Income Protector
Rider current charge at issue is 1.05% to 1.20% of the Benefit Base depending on
the Lifetime Plus Payment selected. The rider charge is subject to change (not
to exceed the maximum of 2.50% to 2.75%). The optional Investment Protector
Rider current charge at issue is 0.80% of the Target Value. The rider charge is
subject to change (not to exceed the maximum of 2.50%.

For more complete information about Allianz Vision Variable Annuity and variable
investment options, call Allianz Life Financial Services, LLC at 800.624.0197
for a prospectus that contains details on investment objectives, risks, fees and
expenses, as well as other information about the variable annuity and investment
options, which you should carefully consider. You are encouraged to read the
prospectuses thoroughly before sending money.

Guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims-paying ability of
Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America and do not apply to the
performance of the variable subaccounts, which fluctuate with market conditions.

Products issued by Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America. Variable
products are distributed by its affiliate, Allianz Life Financial Services, LLC,
Member FINRA, 5901 Golden Hills Drive, Minneapolis, MN 55416.
www.allianzlife.com. Products are not backed or guaranteed by any affiliate.

About Allianz Life

Founded in 1896 and based in Minneapolis, Allianz Life provides annuities, as
well as life and long-term care insurance in the United States. Allianz Life
products are offered through a nationwide network of independent distribution.
The company is part of Allianz SE, a global financial services group employing
nearly 155,000 people worldwide.

Allianz Life
Laurie Bauer, 763-765-6174
laurie.bauer@allianzlife.com

Copyright Business Wire 2009